This Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines succulent shrimp with a spicy, creamy sauce inspired by Jamaican flavors. It’s a perfect blend of Caribbean spices, fresh ingredients, and pasta, making it a delightful meal for any occasion!

Ingredients List

For the Pasta

• 8 oz pasta (linguine, fettuccine, or your choice)
• 1 lb large shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 small onion (finely chopped)
• 1 bell pepper (sliced, any color)
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (or 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme)
• 1 teaspoon allspice (or Jamaican jerk seasoning)
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (adjust to taste)
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro or parsley (for garnish, optional)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

1. Boil Water: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil.
2. Cook Pasta: Add the pasta and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta water, then drain the pasta and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Shrimp and Sauce

1. Heat Oil and Butter: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat.
2. Sauté Aromatics: Add the chopped onion and sliced bell pepper to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Cook Shrimp: Add the shrimp to the skillet and season with thyme, allspice, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently, until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
4. Add Coconut Milk: Pour in the coconut milk and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cherry tomatoes and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce slightly thickens.

Step 3: Combine Pasta and Sauce

1. Mix Together: Add the cooked pasta to the skillet with the shrimp and sauce. Toss to combine, adding reserved pasta water a little at a time if the sauce is too thick.
2. Taste and Adjust: Taste the pasta and adjust seasoning as needed.

Step 4: Serve

1. Plate the Dish: Serve the Jamaican shrimp pasta hot, garnished with fresh cilantro or parsley.
2. Add Lime: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor.

Nutritional Information

Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional content per serving (assuming 4 servings):

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	450
Total Fat	20g
Saturated Fat	10g
Cholesterol	200mg
Sodium	500mg
Total Carbohydrates	45g
Dietary Fiber	3g
Sugars	4g
Protein	25g

Tips for Success

To ensure your Jamaican Shrimp Pasta turns out perfectly, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Shrimp: Fresh shrimp will provide the best flavor and texture. If using frozen, make sure to thaw them properly.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to adjust the amount of cayenne pepper and allspice to suit your heat preference.
• Add Vegetables: You can add other vegetables like spinach or zucchini for extra nutrition.

Variations

• Add Pineapple: For a tropical twist, add diced pineapple to the sauce.
• Different Proteins: Substitute shrimp with chicken or tofu for a different protein option.
• Spaghetti Squash: For a low-carb version, serve the dish over roasted spaghetti squash instead of pasta.

Conclusion

This Jamaican Shrimp Pasta is a delicious, quick, and easy meal that brings the flavors of the Caribbean to your table. With its creamy coconut sauce and perfectly cooked shrimp, it’s sure to impress!

FAQs

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

While it’s best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and cook the pasta just before serving.

How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover pasta in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of coconut milk or water to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze Jamaican shrimp pasta?

It’s not recommended to freeze this dish, as the shrimp may lose their texture upon thawing. However, you can freeze the sauce (without shrimp) for future use.